The plan, as detailed below, is dependent on rates of infection, hospital capacity, capacity to test and systems for tracing infections.

The forward progress still could be derailed by a surge in positive tests for the coronavirus, or if hospitals or intensive care units become overwhelmed with COVID-19 patients. To move forward the share of people testing positive for the coronavirus must be at or under 20% and increase no more than 10 percentage points over a 14-day period.

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Right now, according to the plan, every region of Illinois has reached the second phase, “Flattening,” to some extent. In this phase, the rate of infections is still increasing but at a slower rate, and Illinoisians can resume outdoor activities, while maintaining social distancing guidelines and wearing face masks.